This
course is intended to provide an introduction to the theory and operation of
different types of photovoltaic devices, the characteristics of solar
illumination, and the advantages and characteristics of concentrating and light
management optics. The physical limits on photovoltaic cell performance and
practical device operation will be analyzed. The main device emphasis will
focus on different types of silicon photovoltaic cells including crystalline,
amorphous, multi-crystalline, and thin film solar cells. An overview of other
types of photovoltaic cells including multi-junction III-V, CdTe, CuIn(Ga)Se2,
and organics will also be given. A discussion of radiometric and spectral
properties of solar illumination will be presented and the impact of these factors
on solar cell design will be explored. Techniques for increasing the
performance of solar cells by light trapping, photon recycling, and
anti-reflection coatings will be covered. The design and operation of imaging
and non-imaging concentrators will also be discussed. Basic experiments related
to PV cell measurements and the optical properties of concentrators are also
planned for the course.